A range cooker is a cooker that has both a hob and an oven. It can be a useful addition to any kitchen and tends to make a good centrepiece.

If a range cooker is electric, it means that the hob and oven run off electricity. Gas-powered range cookers and dual-fuel ranges are also available.

If you are thinking about investing in an electric range cooker, there are many things you should think about before you buy and install it. Read on to find out the answers to 8 common electric range cooker FAQs.

1. Who can install an electric range cooker?

An electric range cooker needs to be installed by a registered electrician. They will know about wiring regulations and ensure that your cooker is installed safely and correctly.

2. Where can I put an electric range cooker?

You can install an electric range cooker pretty much anywhere, as long as it’s not in the same room as a bath or shower. Wherever your cooker is, it ought to be somewhere with:

Sufficient light

No draughts

A good air supply

3. How much space do I need to leave on either side of my electric range cooker?

You can install the majority of range cookers flush to the edges of your kitchen cabinets. However, it’s worth leaving a gap between them anyway so that your cooker can be serviced, cleaned and moved if needed. The advised space is usually about 2.5mm on each side of your cooker.

Some cookers require even more than this, otherwise they can harm your kitchen cabinets. If you are not certain about what your cooker needs, you should ask your installer or get in touch with the manufacturer.

4. How much space do I need to leave between my range cooker and the cooker hood?

5. What height should my electric range cooker be?

Range cookers tend to look best if they’re fitted at the same height as the work surfaces they’re next to. Most electric range cookers have adjustable legs so that they can match a variety of work surface levels.

If you want your cooker to match your work surface level, ensure that your installer knows this before getting started.

6. What depth should my range cooker be?

Most cookers are 60cm deep. This matches the common depth of kitchen cabinets. However, you can get cookers and work surfaces that are shallower or deeper.

Range cookers typically look best if they match the depth of the work surfaces next to them. If you want your cooker to do this, ensure that you measure your work surfaces prior to looking for a cooker.

7. Does my range cooker need a safety bracket?

A safety bracket or anti-tip device is a piece of metal with a u-shaped hole. It attaches to your cooker and either the wall or floor to stop your cooker from tipping over.

It depends on how heavy your range cooker is as to whether you need to use a safety bracket. A heavy cooker will stay in place without one, whereas a lighter one is likely to need one. If your electric range cooker requires a safety bracket, this is likely to come with it.

8. Does my electric range cooker need a plinth?

A plinth is a solid base that your cooker sits on. Several cookers come with a plinth included. It raises your cooker up from the ground and makes it easier to use. It also makes your cooker blend in with your kitchen units if they sit on plinths too.

That said, a range cooker can also work well and look great without a plinth. If you do not want one, ensure that you check that the cooker you want does not come with or require a plinth before buying it.

So now you should know more about electric range cookers and fitting them. If you want to install one in your property and need an electrician, we’re here to help. Complete our online form and we’ll connect you with up to 4 professionals in your area.